Kenyatta Jackson Jr. wants Ohio State's DL to stop playing 'hero ball'
DE and captain Kenyatta Jackson Jr. expressed disappointment in Ohio State's defensive outing vs Illinois, especially with Iowa on deck.
Ohio State defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. criticized his team's performance against Illinois, particularly their inability to limit the opposing team's rushing yards. He stated that allowing 199 rushing yards is unacceptable and that the defensive line needs to improve. Ohio State defeated Illinois 42-19 in their season opener despite the Fighting Illini recording the most offensive yards against the Buckeyes since 2025.
However, Iowa's rushing attack is a concern for the Buckeyes going into their Oct. 3 road game. Iowa ranks fourth in the conference in total rushing yards, averaging 6.53 yards per carry. Jackson emphasized the need for the defensive line to play within the scheme and execute their assignments properly, rather than engaging in "hero ball" where individual efforts overshadow team performance.
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